Universal Technical Institute (UTI) experts are providing tips for maintaining and operating vehicles in winter weather and packing an emergency survival kit. UTI offers the following training programs: automotive, diesel, collision repair, welding, CNC machining, marine, motorcycle, aviation maintenance, airframe & powerplant, energy technology, robotics & automation, HVACR, industrial maintenance, wind power, and non-destructive testing technology.
UTI faculty, staff and graduates can share these tips as media sources.
What: Tips for Safely Maintaining and Operating Vehicles in the Winter
Warm up the vehicle: There is no need to warm up the vehicle past the 30-second mark. Unless your car is over 30 years old with a carburetor, modern-day oil flows easier at colder temperatures and is better matched to the engine in which it is used.
Test the battery: If the battery no longer has enough cold cranking amperage (CCA), extreme cold weather will exacerbate the issue, leading to a stall when starting the vehicle. Before winter arrives, get a battery volt test to ensure it still functions properly. If it fails the test or is marginal, buy a new battery as soon as possible to avoid getting stuck somewhere with a vehicle that won’t start. Lastly, check the auxiliary batteries if it is a luxury or hybrid vehicle. Remember, charging an electric vehicle battery in cold temperatures may take longer.
Check the tires: If the temperature falls below 45 degrees, high-quality winter tires are essential to increase traction, helping to keep the vehicle steady on the road. Make sure all tires maintain a minimum tread depth of 3/32.
Check thevehicle’s fluids:
- Fuel: The fuel tank should be kept as full as possible to prevent moisture from affecting the fuel lines and freezing in cold temperatures. The fuel will allow the engine to go longer and keep the cabin warm if stranded.
- Windshield washer fluid: Check and top off the fluid with the coldest-rated fluid available at every fuel stop. A full reservoir is tremendously important, as messy road debris from a snowstorm can sometimes necessitate constant window washing.
- Coolant/Antifreeze: Keep the engine from freezing by ensuring the vehicle isn’t low on coolant. Check the vehicle operating manual and the coolant usage instructor before adding coolant to the radiator. The recommended blend of coolant and water usually results in a lower engine freezing point than just coolant.
Ensure Visibility: Make sure all lights are working. Replace the bulbs and clean the lenses using a headlight restoration kit if the headlights or taillights are dim or yellow. Additionally, replace the wipers annually and inspect each blade for nicks or tears before winter hits.
What: Emergency Survival Kit Packing List
Drivers are wise to protect themselves and their passengers from getting stranded on the road. Survival kit items to pack can include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Flashlight
- Smartphone, charger and backup charger
- Jumper cables
- Flares, emergency triangles or a reflective vest
- Ice scraper, snow brush and small shovel
- Thermal blanket and weather-appropriate clothing, such as gloves, hats, coats, rain gear, and comfortable, warm shoes
- Water and non-perishable food
- A basic tool kit including pliers, a screwdriver, a jack and a wrench
When: Any time
How: Please see the media contacts above to arrange an in-person interview, phone, or video interview. To learn more about Universal Technical Institute, please visit,
About Universal Technical Institute, Inc.
About Universal Technical Institute, Inc. Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (NYSE: UTI) (the “Company”) was founded in 1965 and is a leading workforce solutions provider of transportation, skilled trades and healthcare education programs, whose mission is to serve students, partners, and communities by providing quality education and support services for in-demand careers across a number of highly skilled fields. The Company is comprised of two divisions: Universal Technical Institute (“UTI”) and Concorde Career Colleges (“Concorde”). UTI operates 16 campuses located in 9 states and offers a wide range of transportation and skilled trades technical training programs under brands such as UTI, MIAT College of Technology, Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, Marine Mechanics Institute and NASCAR Technical Institute. Concorde operates across 17 campuses in 8 states, offering programs in the Allied Health, Dental, Nursing, Patient Care and Diagnostic fields. For more information, visit or www.concorde.edu, or visit us on LinkedIn at @UniversalTechnicalInstitute and @Concorde Career Colleges or on X @news_UTI or @ConcordeCareer
Thank you, Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
